Oklahoma City Thunder Launch Championship Defense with Nail-Biting Double Overtime Triumph
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander came to the Thunder back in 2019.
The Thunder's star player scored the game-winning baskets deep into a second overtime period as the defending champions started their championship campaign with a narrow victory over the Houston Rockets.
Last season's MVP scored a team-high 35 points, featuring two from the free-throw line with just 2.3 seconds left in the second overtime, securing the titleholders a positive start.
The Rockets' big man led all scorers with a game-high 39 and also connected on a personal-best five shots from beyond the arc.
But the Thunder's rookie, who contributed 28 points, was instrumental alongside match-winner Gilgeous-Alexander.
"Grit and defense," SGA commented of their showing. "We know that when we execute defensively we give ourselves a opportunity no matter what's going on—makes, missed attempts, fortune or misfortune. We did sufficient defence to secure the victory. We're pretty rusty, but it's a good start."
Prior to the game, Oklahoma's title banner was unveiled at their arena, while the squad were presented with their championship rings.
Oklahoma City defeated the Pacers in the previous season's championship series. It was their first title since the franchise relocated in 2008 to OKC from Seattle, who had claimed the 1979 crown.
Indiana will have the opportunity to secure some payback on Friday when they face Oklahoma, while the Rockets are back on court on the identical day at the Pistons.
Elsewhere, a massive performance of 43 points, 12 boards and nine assists from Luka Doncic was not enough to stop his new team the Lakers from falling to a 119-109 defeat against the Warriors.
Jimmy Butler picked up 31 points and Stephen Curry added 23 points for the road team.
Los Angeles were missing the league's top scorer James as he recovers from sciatica.
